Credit: Santa Cruz PD
SANTA CRUZ — Police helped a woman recover her purse after it was stolen with Christmas money still inside. 30-year-old Anthony Rodriguez is now behind bars for his part in the incident.
On Sunday afternoon, December 18th, at about 1 PM, a woman was waiting at a bus stop near Pacific and Beach when a man approached and wrestled her purse away from her. She was not injured during the altercation.
A witness called 9-1-1 on the victim’s behalf and took photos of the assailant as he ran away toward the Santa Cruz Beach and Boardwalk. At the time, the witness was able to describe him as a Hispanic male in his 30s or 40s, 5’4″-5’6″ tall, and medium built.
Police set up a perimeter and found the suspect, later identified as Rodriguez, a short time later. Witnesses were able to positively confirm his identity.
Rodriguez is currently housed at Santa Cruz County Jail.
